Aperture Mode
The first notable feature is “Aperture Mode,” which recreates the distinctive signatures of various Leica lenses, such as the Summilux-M 28mm f/1.4 ASPH and the Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 ASPH. LUX incorporates Leica’s proprietary image processing engine, leveraging AI technology to replicate how a lens would traditionally perform, including emulating the bokeh effect—how a photo renders out-of-focus areas.
While the iPhone’s aperture is a fixed element and cannot be physically altered, LUX provides software-based control over the amount of light entering the camera, giving users a unique aperture-like control.
Leica Looks
The second feature involves Leica Looks—sets of filters that simulate the visual aesthetics of photographs taken with Leica cameras. These filters range from various color gradients to film presets. For example, Vivid Look enhances colors, Natural Look softens them, and the Eternal filter increases saturation. The app also offers several grayscale options, such as BW Natural and Blue, which applies a bluish tint to your monochrome images.
LUX also includes multiple shooting modes. Users can choose Automatic mode to simplify the photography process or opt for manual controls to adjust settings like shutter speed and white balance. Additional noteworthy features consist of the capability to save images in ProRAW format and diverse options for focus adjustments.
Availability and Pricing
LUX is available for download on the Apple App Store under a “Freemium” model. This offers free access to Automatic Photo mode, Aperture Mode, and five Leica Looks filters. For those seeking more advanced capabilities, a monthly subscription fee of $6.99/€7.99/AU$9.99 unlocks manual controls, five additional lens simulations, and all 11 Leica Looks filters. An annual subscription is also available at $69.99/AU$99.99.
Quality Concerns
Despite the robust features, some have raised concerns regarding the app’s image quality. According to The Verge, early users observed artifacts in the images, such as jagged edges and missing details. Additionally, certain edits cannot be undone, and applying Apple’s effects can lead to incongruent results.
However, these issues were reported from a beta version of LUX, and Leica plans ongoing updates to address such problems and enhance the app with new filters and features. We have reached out to Leica for clarification on these artifact issues and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
By downloading LUX, photography enthusiasts can explore an enhanced way of capturing images, blending the sophistication of Leica’s technology with the convenience of the iPhone.
